Variegated Devil's Backbone Euphorbia

Light Needs

Bright Indirect Light

Mature Height

6 - 8 Feet

Mature Spread

1 - 2 Feet

Feature

Low Maintenance

The variegated Devil’s Backbone, native to Texas and Central America, grows as a tall shrub, reaching over 10 feet high. As a houseplant, it will be shorter but equally impressive. The upright stems of Euphorbia tithymaloides display creamy white and green variegated foliage, which takes on a reddish hue in cooler temperatures. This desert succulent tolerates drought exceptionally well, making it an ideal gift for aspiring plant parents still finding their rhythm.

Best Locations For Growing Variegated Devil’s Backbone

Once the Devil’s Backbone reaches 18-24 inches, it makes a striking floor plant for hallways or corners in bright rooms. Although it can tolerate cooler temperatures (down to 45°F outdoors), keep it away from heating and cooling vents, as well as drafty doors and windows, to prevent significant leaf drop. As a Euphorbia, all plant parts are toxic, particularly to small pets and children. Wear gloves when pruning or transplanting this plant to avoid exposure to its irritating white sap.

Variegated Devil’s Backbone Euphorbia Sunlight Requirements

This plant thrives in bright to medium indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch its delicate foliage and should be avoided. The ideal location is an east-facing window with early morning sun exposure. Alternatively, position the plant 4-6 feet from a west-facing window or across the room from a south-facing window.

Variegated Devil’s Backbone Euphorbia Care

Plant this desert succulent in a free-draining potting mix enriched with chunky organic material. A cactus or succulent mix with added perlite, pumice, or gritty sand works best. Regular repotting while the plant is young prevents it from becoming root-bound and encourages vigorous growth. 

While Devil’s Backbone rarely blooms indoors, relocating it outdoors during warmer summer months may stimulate flower spikes after a few years. Pruning is generally unnecessary, but remove any yellowing or brown leaves to maintain a tidy appearance.

Watering Variegated Devil’s Backbone Euphorbia

Allow the top 50% of the soil to dry between waterings to prevent overwatering. Check moisture levels every 1-2 weeks to determine when to water. If the plant drops leaves or exhibits curled foliage, it may be dehydrated and should be watered more frequently.

Feeding Variegated Devil’s Backbone Euphorbia

Succulents are not heavy feeders and benefit from light feeding during spring and summer. Use a liquid formulation with a balanced NPK ratio every 6 weeks from April to September, when growth is most vigorous.

SKU:

SUCC_EUPHORBIA_DEVILS.BACKBONE.VAR